Robert Riffel
2021
Robert James Riffel
FRANKLIN FURNACE-Robert James Riffel, 76, of Franklin Furnace, passed away Wednesday, September 22, 2021 at his home. Robert was born April 26, 1945 in Burlington, IA to the late Ralph Riffel and Gertrude Breuer Riffel. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran serving during the Vietnam War and retired as a B-52 Pilot. He was employed by the Bureau of Aeronautics and worked doing airport inspections and safety briefings for pilots. Robert had a BA in Fish & Wildlife and loved to fish and hunt and being outdoors. He was a member of St. John Lutheran Church and the B-52 Association. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Kara. Robert is survived by his wife, Vivian Jean Maggard Riffel, whom he married January 14, 2006 in Ironton, OH. He is also survived by two daughters, Kristen (Rick) Erwin and Jamie (Jerry) Gray; a sister, Jeanne Vaver; six grandchildren; three great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Services for Robert will be 11:00 am Saturday, September 25, 2021 at St. John Lutheran Church with Rev. Brent Cavendish officiating. Interment will be in St. John Cemetery. The family will receive friends, 5:00-8:00 pm Friday, September 24, 2021 at Harrison-Pyles Funeral Home in Wheelersburg and at the church one hour before the 11:00 am service on Saturday. Condolences to the family may be made at www.harrison-pyles.com.
Condolences
BRUCE BENTLEY
So sorry to hear of Bob's passing. Would have enjoyed seeing him at one of our reunions. The last time I saw Bob was on a post-graduation (high school) trip we took to the Boundary Water's canoe area, lots of fun and mosquitos! RIP, Bruce
Mary Kimball
Vivian Keith and are so sorry for your loss. Bob was always such a great man to spend time with always so much fun. Miss all the good times we all shared together. He will trully be missed . Keeping you in our hearts and Prayers... Love you Mary & Keith
Peg Prior Speed
To All of Bob's Family, I was somewhat stunned to hear of Bob's passing, and so very sorry. As cousins, I probably knew him best while growing up and during his years in Mediapolis. Later, I would see him frequently at family reunions. Bob always struck me as someone so full of life and fun! He had the cutest dimples that fit his personality and orneriness. And he loved ketchup sandwiches! I never forgot that. He was a warm, happy person and I salute anyone like him who courageously fought in the Vietnam war, no less as a pilot, whose job was most dangerous. May he Rest In Peace and may God Bless and comfort each of you in your sorrow. My sympathy.
Kaelynn Clingenpeel
Vivian, I am so sorry for your loss and wish so badly we could all be there to give you a huge hug. Grandpa was so lucky to have you as his wife and he will be forever loved and deeply missed. Love and miss you, Kae and Ayden
Hannah Erwin
My heart goes out to you with so much love. I’m really sorry this happened and I pray you find comfort and peace in knowing he’s no longer in pain. He was a strong man till the end. We all will miss him. Love you
Brady and Judith Workman
Dearest Vivian, we are so sorry for yet another loss for you and your family. We pray for God’s peace and comfort during this time. With love Judy and Brady